With the current emphasis on buying Canadian, it makes sense consider travelling within Canada as well. As we see the summer driving season appearing just around the corner, we thought it would be a good time to start looking at some options for Canadian Road Trips.
As we get closer to summer we will zoom in and bring you ideas from specific regions to ensure that you have lots of options for Canadian Road Trips
Canada, with its vast landscapes and diverse terrains, offers some of the world’s most breathtaking road trips. Whether you’re seeking a quick day trip or an extended journey, there’s a scenic route perfect for your family. Here are ten family-friendly Canadian road trips to consider this summer:
1. The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
This 298-kilometer loop around Cape Breton Island is renowned for its coastal beauty. The trail offers panoramic ocean views, highland scenery, and cultural experiences. Families can explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park, enjoy whale watching, and immerse themselves in Celtic and Acadian cultures. The trail is easily accessible from Halifax, making it a convenient option for East Coast travelers.
2. Icefields Parkway, Alberta
Stretching 232 kilometers between Banff and Jasper, the Icefields Parkway is a journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Families can marvel at towering peaks, pristine lakes, and ancient glaciers. Highlights include stops at Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield, where you can take guided tours onto the glacier. The route is well-serviced, with campgrounds and lodges catering to travelers.
3. Sea-to-Sky Highway, British Columbia
Connecting Vancouver to Whistler, the Sea-to-Sky Highway offers a 121-kilometer drive filled with stunning ocean vistas and mountain landscapes. Along the way, families can visit attractions like the Britannia Mine Museum, Shannon Falls, and the Sea-to-Sky Gondola. In Whistler, outdoor activities abound, from hiking and biking to exploring Indigenous culture at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. cntraveler.com
4. Fundy Coastal Drive, New Brunswick
This 460-kilometer drive along the Bay of Fundy showcases the world’s highest tides. Families can explore Hopewell Rocks, where towering flowerpot formations are revealed at low tide, and enjoy coastal towns like St. Andrews. The drive offers opportunities for beachcombing, kayaking, and experiencing the rich maritime history of the region.
5. Viking Trail, Newfoundland and Labrador
Spanning 489 kilometers from Deer Lake to St. Anthony, the Viking Trail takes families through Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique geology and stunning fjords. Further north, visit L’Anse aux Meadows, the only known Viking settlement in North America. The trail offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
6. Algonquin Park Corridor, Ontario
Highway 60 winds 56 kilometers through Algonquin Provincial Park, offering families a chance to experience Ontario’s quintessential wilderness. With numerous hiking trails, canoe routes, and wildlife viewing opportunities, it’s ideal for both day trips and longer stays. The park is accessible from major centers like Toronto and Ottawa.
7. Route des Navigateurs, Quebec
Following the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, this 470-kilometer route from Baie-du-Febvre to Sainte-Luce offers families a journey through picturesque villages, historic sites, and maritime heritage. Highlights include the Bioparc de la Gaspésie and the historic site of Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse.
8. The Cowboy Trail, Alberta
Running along Highway 22, the Cowboy Trail offers families a glimpse into Alberta’s ranching country. The route passes through rolling foothills, with opportunities to visit working ranches, explore small western towns, and enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding and fishing. The trail is accessible from Calgary, making it a convenient getaway.
9. Pacific Marine Circle Route, British Columbia
This 289-kilometer loop on Vancouver Island takes families through diverse landscapes, from coastal beaches to lush rainforests. Highlights include the charming town of Sooke, the beaches of Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, and the historic community of Cowichan Bay. The route offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
10. The Trans-Labrador Highway, Newfoundland and Labrador
For families seeking a remote adventure, the Trans-Labrador Highway offers a rugged journey through one of Canada’s last frontiers. Stretching over 1,100 kilometers, this route requires careful planning but rewards travelers with untouched wilderness, abundant wildlife, and the chance to experience Labrador’s unique culture.
Tips for a Successful Family Road Trip:
- Plan Ahead: Research your route, book accommodations in advance, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
- Pack Essentials: Bring along snacks, water, first-aid supplies, and entertainment for the kids.
- Embrace Flexibility: Allow time for spontaneous stops and discoveries along the way.
- Stay Connected: Ensure you have a reliable GPS or maps, and be aware of areas with limited cell service.
Embarking on a Canadian road trip offers families the chance to create lasting memories while exploring some of the country’s most scenic landscapes. Whether you prefer coastal drives, mountain vistas, or remote adventures, there’s a route waiting for you this summer.